Tension heightens in Abuja over terror attack alert, US orders exit of American citizens, Embassy Staff from Nigeria

Tension has continued to rise in Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) since the international alert of planned terrorists attack in the country’s seat of power by the United State and Britain. The US has become convinced that the terror attack is imminent, and thus, begun to make arrangements for exit of American citizens from Nigeria.

Accordingly, the United States Department of State on Tuesday evening disclosed the granting of “authorized departure status” to American citizens and Embassy staff in Abuja over imminent terrorists attacks in Abuja.

the US Department of States, in a notice on Tuesday evening, promised to provide routine and emergency services to US citizens in Nigeria. The department advised US citizens to “keep a low profile” and “take advantage of commercial transportation options” if they wish to leave Nigeria.

The US in the advisory, highlighted: “On October 25, 2022, the Department authorized the departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and family members due to the heightened risk of terrorist attacks.

“The U.S. Embassy Abuja continues to have limited ability to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Nigeria. The U.S. Consulate in Lagos is providing all routine and emergency services to U.S. citizens in Nigeria,”

The Department discouraged American citizens out of Nigeria from traveling to the country, urging them to “reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and maritime crime” as some areas have increased risk.

The US and Britain on Sunday issued warning of possible terror attacks in Abuja, especially at government buildings, places of worship, schools and other centres where large crowds gather.